Category: Blog

What is a Planning Scheme?

A planning scheme is a comprehensive document prepared by local governments which set the framework for growth and change through development within that local government’s jurisdictional area. As identified by DSDIP a planning scheme: • outlines the desired outcomes sought for the local government area as a whole and for particular localities • allocates land […]

Queensland Planning Reform

The State Government, involving the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP) is currently in the process of reviewing for reform the current planning and development system in an attempt to support the continued growth and prosperity of Queensland. The DSDIP identifies that this reform aims to: – streamline assessment and approval processes – […]

House Extensions Town Planning Services

House Extension in a Demolition Control Precinct (DCP)

Do you have property located within the jurisdiction of Brisbane City Council that is identified within a Demolition Control Precinct (DCP)? Are you looking to extend a house on this property? You may need to submit a Development Application, outlining your proposal, for assessment by council. Further being located in a Demolition Control Precinct, your […]

How long does it take to get planning approval/permit?

The timeframe for getting a planning approval/development permit is largely dependent on the type of development and required assessment level (Exempt, Self, Code or impact). Other factors to consider include the complexity of the proposal, with regards to recognizing; if any referral agency involvement is required, if public notification is required, and if there are […]

What is a ‘Properly Made’ Application?

Properly Made Application Development Applications in Queensland are assessed in accordance with the integrated development assessment system (IDAS) and the first stage of this system pertains to the assessment manager establishing if an application is 'properly made'. For an application to be recognized as 'properly made' it needs to be: - made to the applicable [...]
Home Based Business Town Planning

Do you want to work from home? Do you need a Planning Approval?

Home Based Business Approvals It would seem that there is a continuing and, perhaps increasing trend towards home based businesses, whereby smaller companies are moving away from the office environment in favour of working from a residential home. In doing this it is recognized  that most local councils have planning regulations and requirements which pertain to these home based […]

Gold Coast Council Meetings Town Planning

Council Pre-Lodgement Meetings

What is a Pre-Lodgement Meeting? A Pre-lodgement meeting with council can be a useful tool in assisting with desired development proposals, prior to lodging a development application with the relevant council, whether this be for a material change of use or reconfiguration of lot that has a level of complexity whereby comment is sought before […]

Town Planning Stages of Application

Stages of a Development Application

Development Application Stages In preparing and managing the assessment of these development applications we follow the procedures and timelines associated with all applications lodged to local council, as summarised in the below stages; Stage 1: Development application is prepared including; assessment of proposal against local planning scheme, development plans, specialist reports, filling out of application […]

Town Planning Impact Assessment

What is Impact Assessment?

If your proposed development is subject to Impact Assessment it is noted that this is the highest level of assessment for town planning applications, in accordance with the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. Applications requiring this level of assessment establish the need for assessment of the proposal against the entire planning scheme,along with public notification. This […]